Why Visit Namibia in December?

Namibia in December isn’t at the top of most travel bucket lists. For many, it’s synonymous with soaring summer heat and the start of the rainy season. But for savvy, adventurous travelers willing to go beyond the Big Five safari checklist, December unveils a different, more soulful Namibia—raw, rugged, and refreshingly uncrowded.

For us, December was the only time we could squeeze in a trip. Having already experienced iconic safaris across Southern and East Africa—Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—we were excited to experience Namibia through a new lens: landscapes, culture, and photography.

And you know what? Namibia in December exceeded every expectation.

What’s the Weather Like in Namibia in December?

Regional Weather Breakdown

While it’s technically the start of the rainy season, Namibia is vast, and the weather varies dramatically depending on where you go.

☀️ Namib Desert (Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Namib-Naukluft)

• Climate: Hot, dry, and mostly sunny.

• Highlights: Iconic red dunes under golden light. Expect stunning sunrises and sunsets with fewer tourists.

• Tip: Early morning is prime time for climbing Big Daddy or capturing Deadvlei’s eerie beauty.

🏔️ Damaraland & Kaokaland (Northwest Namibia)

• Climate: Surprisingly dry even in early summer.

• Highlights: Stunning desert-adapted wildlife, rock engravings, and dramatic landscapes.

• Tip: Ideal for travelers interested in geology and ancient history.

🐘 Etosha National Park

• Climate: Begins transitioning to rainy conditions mid-December.

• Highlights: Still solid for game viewing early in the month. Animals gather around waterholes before rains fill seasonal pans.

• Tip: Visit during the first 1–2 weeks of December for optimal wildlife spotting.

🌊 Swakopmund & Walvis Bay (Coastal Namibia)

• Climate: Cool and breezy thanks to the Atlantic Ocean’s Benguela Current.

• Highlights: Water-based activities, German colonial architecture, and sand dunes that roll into the sea.

• Tip: Great for travelers wanting a break from the heat.

Is December a Bad Time to Visit Namibia?

Short answer? Absolutely not.

Longer answer: It depends on what you’re looking for.

If your trip revolves around chasing the Big Five or joining peak-season game drives, December might not offer the concentrated wildlife viewing you’d get in July or August. But if you value scenic drives, cultural depth, wide-open deserts, and off-the-beaten-path adventure, then December can be magical.

Advantages of Visiting Namibia in December

✅ Fewer Tourists

Namibia is already a sparsely populated country, but in December, even popular sites like Sossusvlei or Etosha feel like your personal playground. You’ll avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter, more immersive experience.

📷 Incredible Photography

With the seasonal shift comes dramatic skies, moody clouds, and richer light—a dream for landscape photographers. The contrast of sunlit dunes beneath stormy skies is otherworldly.

🎭 Cultural Encounters

Less foot traffic means you can connect more deeply with local communities. From the Himba people in the north to the Herero and Damara groups, you’ll have meaningful conversations and experiences often missed by high-season travelers.

🐜 Surprisingly Few Bugs

Many expect the early rains to bring swarms of insects. But in much of Namibia, light rainfall can actually keep bugs at bay by disrupting breeding cycles. Bring repellent just in case—but don’t worry too much.

What We Loved Most: Beyond the Safari

Namibia redefines the African travel experience. Sure, the wildlife is there—especially desert-adapted species like elephants and oryx—but the real beauty lies in the ethnographic, geological, and cinematic appeal of its landscapes.

We met travelers who spent two weeks in Namibia without stepping foot on a safari—and they loved it. You can trace German colonial history in Swakopmund, explore ancient San rock art, hike Mars-like terrain, and have sundowners in ghost towns reclaimed by sand.

Where to Go in Namibia in December

Even with a short itinerary or a modest budget, you can see incredible regions across the country. Here are the places we recommend for December visits:

1. Sossusvlei & Deadvlei (Namib-Naukluft National Park)

Why Go in December?

• Still dry and accessible

• Breathtaking sunrises and long shadows perfect for photography

• Fewer tourists, more serenity

Must-Do Activities:

• Climb Dune 45 or Big Daddy at sunrise

• Explore the petrified trees of Deadvlei

• Camp under the stars or stay in desert lodges

2. Swakopmund & Walvis Bay

Why Go in December?

• Cooler coastal weather offers a reprieve from desert heat

• Great combo of nature, history, and adrenaline

Must-Do Activities:

• Sandboarding and quad biking on massive dunes

• Dolphin and seal cruises

• Visit flamingo colonies and the eerie Skeleton Coast

3. Etosha National Park

Why Go in December?

• Good game viewing early in the month

• Unique chance to see animals against greenish backdrops post-rain

Must-Do Activities:

• Self-drive safaris to popular waterholes

• Stay at Okaukuejo or Halali rest camps for easy access to wildlife

4. Damaraland

Why Go in December?

• Incredible geological diversity and desert-adapted wildlife

• Less rain compared to Etosha

Must-Do Activities:

• Visit Twyfelfontein for ancient rock art

• Spot desert elephants and oryx in remote valleys

• Learn about the Damara people’s traditions

5. Northern Namibia & Kaokaland

Why Go in December?

• Culturally rich and less commercial

• Beautiful, wild scenery largely untouched by tourism

Must-Do Activities:

• Engage with the Himba communities

• Cross dramatic mountain passes with unforgettable views

• Discover hidden hot springs and desert oases

Packing Tips for Namibia in December

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Stick to moisture-wicking fabrics.

• Sun protection: A wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses are musts.

• Camera gear: If you’re into photography, bring lens wipes—sand and mist can be unpredictable.

• Insect repellent: Just in case.

• Reusable water bottle: Dehydration sneaks up quickly in the heat.

Suggested Itinerary for 10–14 Days in Namibia in December

Day 1–2: Arrive in Windhoek, acclimate, and stock up on supplies
Day 3–5: Head to Sossusvlei (sunrise hikes, stargazing, Deadvlei)
Day 6–7: Drive to Swakopmund (desert-meets-ocean adventures)
Day 8–9: Explore Damaraland (Twyfelfontein, desert wildlife)
Day 10–12: Visit Etosha (early game drives, waterhole watching)
Day 13–14: Return to Windhoek or continue north to Kaokaland

Should You Travel to Namibia in December?

If you’re expecting a classic safari experience with dense game sightings and perfect weather, December might not tick every box. But if you’re open to discovering Namibia’s soul—its otherworldly terrain, resilient cultures, and cinematic backdrops—then December is a wildly rewarding time to visit.

Go in December if you:

✅ Prefer landscapes, photography, and solitude over crowded game parks
✅ Enjoy connecting with local cultures and communities
✅ Don’t mind adjusting your schedule to avoid peak heat
✅ Want to explore off-season with more flexibility and lower costs